Gavlan’s ready to open for business on Rte. 18

EAST BRUNSWICK — Gavlan’s Grill & Bar will open for dinner business beginning Tuesday in a renovated restaurant building on Route 18 north.

After a short transitional period of about a week, Gavlan’s will be open for lunch and dinner and will feature a full-service menu from 11 a.m. until 2 a.m. seven days a week.

The menu, described as chef-driven and with items ranging in price from $6 to $20, will consist of American favorites such as hand-pattied burgers, brick oven pizzas, pasta, fresh fish and steaks, along with a few signature items unique to the concept.

Gavlan’s is located in the former Stuff Yer Face building, which has undergone a complete renovation.

The restaurant owners, Jeff Jonas and Melanie Totten Jonas, said the establishment will accommodate a variety of clientele, from the family looking for a kid-friendly establishment to the single person looking for a restaurant with a happening bar.

Jeff and Melanie both grew up in the area and currently reside in Old Bridge. They also own Jonas Gymnastics Academy and Cheer Center, Marlboro.

Jeff described opening a restaurant as a natural progression for him.

“I worked in restaurants in high school and college,” he has said. “I even worked in Stuff Yer Face when they opened up. I owned a pizzeria years ago. I like the restaurant business. It’s exciting and fast-paced. Plus, I like cooking.”

It was a tragedy that inspired the name of the restaurant. Melanie said the name came from twin boys she gave birth to a year ago. Gavin and Dylan died shortly after their birth.

“We have put our heart and soul into every detail of this restaurant,” the owners said in a statement. “We are so excited to be here and can’t wait to meet all of our new neighbors.”